Inspired by a true story, Rocky Holeczek is a uniquely vibrant man, who at the age of 107, is the oldest employed baker in Pittsburgh. His roommate is his grandson, Michael, a 35-year-old surgeon whom he has raised since ... more &raquochildhood -- and continues to guide into manhood. Their saga spans over 30 years, beginning when Rocky is 75 years old. During the course of their life together, Michael's world expands to include a wife, children, an overly attentive mother-in-law and a busy career in medicine. Through all the changes, one thing between them remains constant: Rocky's determination to stick around for as long as it takes to teach Michael what he needs to know about living.&laquo less

Movie Reviews

An underrated sleeper

05/12/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I must put in a word of defense for this excellent movie, which was sadly underrated by both critics and audiences. The true story - of a Polish baker in Pittsburgh who raised his orphaned grandson at the age of 70+ and put him through medical school - sounds like a formula for sentimentality and cliches. However, the movie transcends that to become a moving story of the strength of family, with many wonderful touches of humor. Peter Falk's portrayal of the irascible, curmudgeonly, and indomitable Rocky Holzcek dominates the movie. We are made to care about all the people portrayed. I don't understand the criticism about the movie "not having a story" to tie it together. The changing relationship of Rocky and his family as the years go by has plenty of elements of drama. This movie touched me deeply. It's a real sleeper."

Laughter through tears

CJ | 02/13/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Unfortunately, this gem is one of those movies where people look at the box and just pass up. A big mistake. Although "Roommates" starts out as what appears to be light comedy. Peter Falk's portrayal of a cantankerous old man is just great throughout. But as the movie progresses, and down-to-earth hardships such as the loss of family members becomes part of the story, the characters become deeper, and the truly touching love of an old man for his family, and the love of a man for his grandfather come through. It is a beautiful film that will make you laugh out loud, make you cry buckets of tears, break your heart and then repair it again. You cannot help but get absorbed in the characters and relationships in "Roommates". Recommended viewing!"

A Lovely little movie!

C. Adams | Warroad, MN United States | 01/15/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"We watched this on a quiet night and didn't expect much. We were pleasantly surprised at how touching it was. I recommend it to anyone sick of blood, guts, sex, etc. but yet doesn't want to watch a Disney cartoon."

A movie which I am sentimentally attached too!

Kristopher Haines | Portland, OR United States | 04/21/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"...The art of film-making distinguishes itself from other art forms
because it lends itself quite easily to being experienced by many people at one time. This
quality becomes greater when you experience a great movie with a loved one. That film
then becomes one of your fondest memories. For me, this is the case with "Room-mates."
I will forever remember the first time I watched this movie and who I watched it with.
There are certain movies where you quite willingly turn a blind eye to it's supposed
"imperfections" and enjoy it purely because it left you with a good feeling in your heart
and a memory you will forever cherish. It is very odd indeed that "Room-mates" would
fall into this category. Despite the fact that you know one of the film's saddest moments is
inevitable, it still affects you deeply. Even then, you are left with hope in your heart, and
know that these character's will endure. I love the subtle yet important messages it
imparts. As a small boy, the son has to contend with the old man's incessant snoring yet
when he finally is out on his own and free of it he finds he can not sleep for the lack of it.
(This proves, in a unique and unforgettable way that you do not appreciate what you have
until you've lost it.) Every member of the cast gives stellar performances without
exception. I even enjoyed the moments that some critics would argue went over the top.
Above all else I will remember what this film means to me personally. It was a rare sunny
day (my fellow Oregonians will appreciate the understatement.) My mother and I, refusing
to worship the sun decided to take in a movie. This was that movie, it is a rare gem that
manages to be genuinely heartwarming, without being sugary. It is a film I will never tire
of because it themes are universal. And it will forever be associated with the day my
mother and I shunned the sun, and saw a film that to us is unforgettable. It is a film I am
proud to have in my collection."

Roommates

Dr. Ronald W. Botto | 04/24/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In agreement with the other viewers, and contrary to the critic's review, this is a wonderful movie that deals with many issues regarding aging in America. Although it takes place in the 70's and 80's it is not dated. It deals with relationships within families, between generations, as well as health and social issues. I use it in my classes on aging and dentistry/medicine as a trigger film for class discussion of a wide variety of areas regarding aging in America. The vast majority of students (dental) find it meaningful and worthwhile. It is very moving, but not maudlin. As one of our students said "It is nice to see the guys in the class show emotion for once." I wish it would be rereleased."